San Diego · Marina District

Animae

Name: Animae
Address: San Diego, CA, US
Price range: $$$$

#61 in San DiegoPan-Asian$$$$

Awards

4.6

What People Are Saying

“The venue is stunning. Immaculate detail to everything. Very high end atmosphere. Server was Bonnie and she was exceptional. We got the below Cocktails - old fashion - Ube (on the sweeter side) Cold plates - scallops - absolutely divine. These were...”

New Buzz

James Beard Awards set sights on two San Diego County chefs, Convoy speakeasy

Times of San Diego · 5 months ago

Two local chefs and one San Diego bar named 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists

San Diego Union-Tribune · 5 months ago

More coverage →

HRL Ranking

Apr 22May 18Jun 15Jul 13

Tara Monsod

Head Chef

Tara Monsod is the chef at Animae in Downtown San Diego, an Asian-inspired Wagyu steakhouse. She has been named a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist, representing notable recognition in the culinary industry.

What to Order

Taiwanese Chicken

Consistently the most-praised dish here. Crispy, tender, and anchored by a sauce that makes the whole plate sing.

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